A local family’s efforts to save an injured pit bull they say saved their son’s life in Medford is making headlines across New York.
There’s an online fundraiser that’s been set up to deal with mounting medical bills for the family’s dog, Niko. Nearly $8,000 has been raised so far.
Paws United People is also helping lead the rescue efforts.
[Click here to donate.]
According to reports, Medford resident Nicole Paige’s son, Jayden, 12, was walking Niko on Shirley Lane Wednesday morning when a car suddenly swerved along the road, striking Niko but not Jayden.
The driver — the crowdsourcing fundraiser claims he blew a stop sign — ultimately stayed on the scene but no summonses were issued from police.
According to CBS News New York, Niko is now suffering from severe pelvic fractures.
Jayden told his parents and reporters it could have been him that got struck.
“He barked and he got down on all fours, so I guess he kinda saved me,” the middle schooler told CBS News.
The pup is being treated at Animal Emergency Services in Selden, which is discounting Niko’s treatment as part of the efforts, according to the CBS report.
